Pending projects could lead to job growth in Washington, Hancock counties

GOULDSBORO, Maine (NEWS CENTER) --- A string of projects in Downeast Maine could bring more jobs to that region in the months ahead.

New companies have come forward to buy the old Stinson Cannery in Prospect Harbor. Garbo Lobster, which is based in Hancock, is partnering with Massachusetts based East Coast Seafood on the project.

The two groups hope to reopen the cannery as a lobster processing plant, which is what it was before its former owner closed it down last year. The new owners are notcommenting at this point on how many jobs they hope to create.

The Ellsworth American has reported at least 165 jobs could be created if the cannery reopens. Another project in Eastport could create 75 more jobs.

Cate Street Capital, which brought new life to the paper mill in East Millinocket, wants to open a wood pellet processing plant there. Officials are hoping to have that plant operating sometime in 2014.